The Key West Film Festival is a must-visit; whether you consider yourself a cinephile, a film lover, or just someone who loves Tropical parties and big events, this festival is for you! Come and be part of this once-in-a-lifetime experience where you will surely make unforgettable memories.
When it comes to Key West events, this is one of everyone’s favorites! Not only is it a great place to meet talented and culturally enriched people, but it’s also a sacred creative space where both artists and the community come together in an immersive and entertaining experience.
Key West Film Festival History
Besides being a unique way to watch films, the Key West Film Festival also supports emerging Florida artists! The rising filmmakers presented in the event are students who compete for scholarships that total thousands of dollars.
The creation and production of the Key West Film Festival is a beautiful opportunity for cultural and economic development for all. Of course, it is especially relevant for the hard-working filmmakers, the media industry, the filmmaker’s creative work, the Florida Keys residents, and beyond.
The story of the fantastic film festival began in 1998 when a group of volunteers created a project that brought alternative films to the town. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, we now have venues like The Tropic Cinema and events like the Key West Film Festival. The original objective was to celebrate independent filmmakers and their work, and, even more so, to make Key West a haven for the artistic world and those that create it. Now, local film companies are even producing international feature films in Key West!
Perhaps one of the most enchanting elements of the Key West Film Festival is how different it is from the rest across the U.S. Its tropical setting enhances that old beach town ambiance, thanks to the warm breeze, the vibrant colors of the sunset, and the cluster of historically preserved homes, theaters, and bars. It’s a laid-back setting where you can relax while your mind expands with these brilliant and consuming films.
How You Can Attend
Of course, it wouldn’t be an event without the people. Everyone knows the people from Key West love a party! The opportunity to celebrate these emerging and exceptionally talented filmmakers and make connections with those in the film industry that already have national or international recognition makes the Key West Film Festival extremely special.
You may purchase an all-pass, with which you can enjoy many perks, including priority seating, an invitation to special events, and unlimited film screenings! Besides enjoying the charming feel of the Old Town Key West and the event itself, where Oscar-challenging films and shorts will hypnotize you, you can also unwind in between by taking a light stroll at the beach or perhaps even going for a swim. Lighten up with a fresh cocktail from Sloppy Joe’s, or grab a bite and a local brew at any other exuberant bar on the famous and historic Duval Street.
Everyone knows you don’t leave right away when a film ends; what if there are post-credit scenes? Well, in this case, there may also be after-parties! You can expect to be invited to an after-party where you can hang out, have a drink, and see where the night takes you. Find the filmmakers after the screenings at the gardens and historic homes of President Truman, the Hemingways, or James Audubon, somewhere between the breweries of Duval Street, or on a boat in the bay.
What Types of Films are Present?
At the Key West Film Festival, you can watch the top selected films from different categories, including documentaries, short films, international films, Florida shorts, LGBTQ+ films, Music and Arts, Oscar-contending films, and more. With the Oscar-contending films and Tony-award-winning films, or the films under the category called “spotlight,” there will be opportunities to ask questions and chat with the film directors and crew! When it comes to film screenings at the Key West Film Festival, you are sure to love each a different way, every time.
Schedule of Events
For schedules and upcoming events, please check their website before visiting Key West for the best experience! The film festival not only offers movie screenings but also includes filmmaker and critic panels and the presentation of various awards. Check their website closer to the date of the event for a more detailed schedule.
Besides the schedule for the film festival itself, you will also find monthly screenings and special events like wine tasting and gourmet bites while there is a movie theme, free event screenings of famous and classic films, private concerts, and so much more!
Past Winners
Winning directors from past years include, but are not limited to, Julia Reichert for Best Woman’s Film, Lisa Immordino Vreeland for Best LGBTQ+ Film, John Biffar for Best Florida Film, Doug Blush for Best Music and Arts Film, Heidi Ewing for KWFF Critic’s Award, Paola Ossa for Best World Student Film, William Stead for Best Florida Student Film, and many more.
In 2021, the winning directors included, but are not limited to, Gabriela Lima for Best Florida Student Film, Zamarin Wahdat for Best World Student Film, Dana Frankoff for Best Documentary, Cinzia Angelina for Best Animated Short, Doug Roland for Best Dramatic Short, Caroline Lindy for Best Comedy Short, Peeter Rebane for Best LGBTQ+ Film, Pedro Almovodar for Best Narrative Film, and many more!
Plan Your Key West Vacation!
Planning your dream vacation to Key West doesn’t have to be complex! When you book with Key West Vacation Homes, it’s simple! Just view our waterfront Key West vacation rentals, book your favorite, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure.
Stay with Key West Vacation Homes
For your next Key West vacation, remember what the city is famous for: various attractions, beaches, vibrant nightlife and sunsets, and breathtaking houses, especially in the Old Town part of Key West! Most homes in Key West are pastel-colored and call the attention of many visitors every year. It is also famous because of the Cuban Culture, particularly lively in popular Duval Street, where there is a cluster of Old Town bars and great dining spots. We can’t forget the mouthwatering Key Pie you must try when you visit!
There are endless things to do in Key West! Bring your own “crew,” whether your family, friends or just yourself. Key West is meant to be enjoyed by everyone that loves the sea and that old beach town feeling. Let your inner adventurer explore by kayaking, biking, sailing, and swimming, and leave your struggles behind as you unwind under the sun. At Key West, every problem is forgotten, that’s for sure.
Stay at any of our famous and lovely Key West vacation rentals; that’s how to grasp the Key West experience fully! Enjoy walking to the hottest spots in town for the best shopping and dining experience, sit back in your private lanai while you read a book, or take a dip in your private pool in our Key West rental you’ve fallen in love with. Choose a bayfront home or a luxurious one in a private community. Live like a local in glamour by vacationing in a townhome at Old Town, with a private balcony and heated pools, and finish a perfect day with a walk to Bayview Park. Here at Key West Vacation Homes, we have something for every taste.
